0624 Business Connection

business CONNECTION

Terry Christensen PUBLISHER tchristensen@messengernews.net

Bill Shea EDITOR bshea@messengernews.net

Leanne Darr MARKETING DIRECTOR ldarr@messengernews.net

Jody Kayser SALES MANAGER jkayser@messengernews.net

Nick Manwarren GRAPHIC DESIGNER nmanwarren@messengernews.net

Jessica Nemechek SALES CONSULTANT jnemechek@messengernews.net

ADDRESS: PHONE: 713 Central Ave. (515) 573-2141 Fort Dodge, IA 50501 FAX: (515) 571-4529

Fort Dodge BUSINESS CONNECTION is published monthly by The Messenger in cooperation with The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance.

All rights reserved. Copyright 2024. Reproduction in part or in whole without the expressed written permission of Fort Dodge BUSINESS CONNECTION is strictly prohibited. Unsolicited manuscripts must be accompanied by return postage. Fort Dodge BUSINESS CONNECTION is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, artwork or manuscripts. The opinions expressed in editorial material are not necessarily the opinions of Fort Dodge Business Connection.

CALLING ALL EMPLOYERS: LET US HELP YOUR NEW EMPLOYEES THRIVE!

Do you have new employees who have started within the last 12 months? Don’t let them navigate this journey alone. Studies show that if your new employee does not feel a sense of belonging within 90 days, you could be at risk of losing them! Our Community Concierge program is here to ensure they seamlessly integrate into the community and feel right at home, strengthening your workforce and our community as a whole.

Make the most of this opportunity – we want to help your new employees thrive in Fort Dodge!

OUR COMMUNITY CONCIERGE PROGRAM OFFERS:

STEP ONE: Contact our office today so that we can sign up your new employee and get their personalized navigator survey completed.

STEP TWO: We match your newcomer with a Certified Regional Navigator who will assist with their integration for 12 months.

STEP THREE: We value your feedback after the program has concluded – after all, we can only get better with your input! What to Expect for Your New Employees:

GUIDED TOURS: Personalized tours of the community to help new residents familiarize themselves with their new home. Employment Support: Assistance with employment opportunities for trailing spouses.

EDUCATIONAL CONNECTIONS: Direct connections to integrate employees’ children into area school districts.

CHILDCARE AND ELDER CARE: Resources and connections for Pre-K childcare and elder care.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: Introductions to places of worship, service clubs, and volunteer opportunities.

PERSONALIZED INTERESTS/EVENT INFORMATION: Updates on community events and activities tailored to their preferences.

HOBBY AND INTEREST CONNECTIONS: Information and connections regarding specific areas of interest and hobbies.

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE: Insights on lifestyle, recreation, business, healthcare, and arts & culture opportunities.

The Growth Alliance’s Community Concierge program is designed to support employers in retaining (and in some cases attracting) valuable employees by facilitating their integration into the Greater Fort Dodge region. Through personalized assistance from a Volunteer Community Navigator, the program helps employees, and their families build relationships, access resources, and engage with various aspects of the community during their first year.

We hope our members utilize this tool in our effort to continue to uphold growth and economic vitality in our robust region.

-Astra Ferris, CEO

The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance

WITH Q&A

WEBSTER COUNTY CONSERVATION:

MATT COSGROVE

RIVER’S EDGE DISCOVERY

CENTER

When is opening day?

The River’s Edge Discovery Center grand opening is scheduled for July 12 & 13, 2024.

What types of exhibits and educational programs will the Discovery Center offer?

The Discovery Center will feature a variety of hands-on, educational exhibits that will appeal to a broad audience and all ages. The central theme of the facility is “Immerse yourself in the living story of Iowa’s water—the lifeblood that shapes our communities and our landscapes—while discovering our responsibility to protect it for the future.” Sub-themes include: “Water in motion, Water as a responsibility, Water as a lifeblood, Water through the ages and Water as a celebration”.

WITH MATT COSGROVE – RIVER’S EDGE DISCOVERY CENTER

What has been the biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge has been funding a project of this scale. The concept of an environmental education facility has been part of the Conservation Board’s vision for the past thirty years. The facility is an extension of the board’s environmental education program.

Are there any plans for future expansions or additional features beyond the initial construction?

The construction of the Discovery Center is the first phase of a multi-phase re-development of the Des Moines Riverfront in Fort Dodge. The next phase of development is scheduled to begin this summer/fall with the construction of a natural playscape, trails, fishing jetties/fish habitat and public art. The 2025, the city will be implementing plans for a Central River District Park and Pavilion. Additional improvements include interpretive signage, water trail access improvements, new interior exhibits, a skate park and trail connections.

What are the long-term goals for the River’s Edge Discovery Center?

The long-term goal for the Discovery Center is to provide a basic understanding and appreciation for Iowa’s water and natural resources. The facility is a part of the Conservation Board’s overall mission to improve the quality of life for the citizens and visitors of Webster County and ultimately connect people with the land. The facility will serve as the “hub” for outdoor recreation in the region and the catalyst project for the re-development of the riverfront in Fort Dodge.

Will there be volunteer opportunities available at the Discovery Center once it opens?

The Conservation Board offers a variety of volunteer opportunities in parks, wildlife management areas, trails and at the Discovery Center. The “Keepers of the Land” volunteer program offers the ability to connect interested volunteers with projects and tasks that they have an interest in. The Discovery Center volunteers will assist staff with greeting the public, answering questions, filling birdfeeders and maintaining the grounds and exhibits.

GREATER FORT DODGE GROWTH ALLIANCE BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Founded in 1984, Bemrich Electric & Telephone has been a cornerstone in the Fort Dodge community, offering top-notch electrical and communication services for over 30 years. Their commitment to excellence is evident in the continuous training of their electricians on new technologies and industry changes, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the field. Each electrician completes a five-year apprenticeship before passing the Iowa Electrical Journeyman Electrician exam, underscoring their dedication to quality and expertise.

Bemrich Electric & Telephone provides a wide range of services tailored to both industrial and residential needs:

INDUSTRIAL SERVICES:

Motor control, switch gear, and transformers, Power distribution, conduit, and cable tray installation, Lighting and maintenance contracts, Grounding systems, lighting protection, and automation controls, Access control, CCTV, and project management

RESIDENTIAL SERVICES:

Design build for new constructions and multi-family housing, Electrical service upgrades and lighting design, Installation of ceiling fans, telephone, and cable TV systems, Power distribution, energy-efficient lighting, and generator installations

In addition to electrical services, Bemrich Electric & Telephone excels in network and fiber optic design. They offer comprehensive solutions that include: Network and video cabling systems with Category 6 wiring Fiber optic cabling installation, splicing, and LAN installation, Full office phone and telecom network cabling

Their technicians are certified by industry leaders such as Panduit, Ortronics, AMP, Leviton, and Belden, ensuring top-tier installation and maintenance services. Whether it’s server installation, wireless networks, computer repair, or virus removal, Bemrich Electric & Telephone provides reliable and efficient solutions.

Bemrich Electric & Telephone prides itself on creating long-term relationships with clients by consistently delivering high-quality and cost-effective services.

Their blend of communication and electrical expertise allows them to customize phone and network systems to meet individual business needs. From automated attendants to IP phones and mobile extensions, their systems are designed to enhance business operations.

City Connect FORT DODGE

Riverfront Improvements Update

Residents of our community have witnessed signifi cant changes along the riverfront over the past few years. These improvements have enhanced the aes thetic appeal, functionality, and safety of our riverfront areas. Here is a detailed update on the recent and ongoing projects:

LITTLE DAM REMOVAL

In the winter of 2019, the Little Dam was successfully removed. This project was crucial in restoring the natural flow of the river, improving aquatic habitats, and enhancing safety for recreational users. The removal process involved extensive planning and coordination to ensure minimal disruption to the surrounding environment and community

HYDRO DAM REMOVAL

The removal of the Hydro Dam was executed in phases, beginning in the winter of 2019 and concluding in the winter of 2020. This complex project required careful dismantling and disposal of the dam structure. The phased approach allowed for better management of river flow and sediment control, ensuring the stabili-

LITTLE DAM JETTIES PROJECT

The Little Dam Jetties project was completed over the winter of 2022-2023. This project involved the construction of new jetties to improve water flow and enhance recreational opportunities along the river. The new jetties have been designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, providing both functional benefits and aesthetic improvements

1ST STREET RECONSTRUCTION

Last year marked the completion of the 1st Street Reconstruction project, a significant milestone in the devel opment of the Central River District area. This project in cluded the installation of new utilities, roadways, lighting, and parking facilities. These enhancements have set the stage for further development in the Central River District, creating a more vibrant and accessible area for residents and visitors

FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS

With these foundational improvements in place, the focus now shifts to further development and enhancement of the Central River District. Plans are underway to introduce new

artistspot

Danielle Border

Age: 31 • Hometown: Fort Dodge

Instrument/Profession: Clarinet/ Middle School Band for Southeast Valley CSD

How did you first become interested in making music?

An early memory I have is just being at my grandma’s nursing home and sitting down at the piano and just hitting the different keys. Maybe it was my parents looking for ways to keep me involved and busy. My first instrument was actually acoustic guitar, but then I switched to piano. Then when I was old enough I started clarinet, like my mom, and from there it just continued to grow.

How long have you been teaching? And, what made you decide to major in Music Education?

I just finished year 9 and all of them have been at Southeast Valley Middle School. I knew education was the right place for me because I have never had a bad teacher. All of them worked with me to achieve all they knew I could. I decided to major in music education around my sophomore/junior year of high school. I enjoyed sitting outside Jan Altemeier’s house after piano lessons in August watching the Senior High Marching Band practice and I knew that looked like the most fun to me. I was lucky enough to start band at St. Edmond then switched to Senior High to get an experience with marching band. I was blessed to have some of the best instrumental music teachers growing up like Jan Altemeier and her husband Keith, Dan Cassady, Mike Richardson, and Curt Klein. I also learned many music skills from Nancy Blair and Mary-ann McSweeney.

Who has the greatest influence on you musically and why?

One of the greatest influencers was my college director, the late Dr. Joan de Albuquerque, because she always shone on the podium. She was small in stature but powerful in expression. Her way of approaching each piece we performed was just easy to play and follow. Her motto for the ensemble, “one band, one family.” My other greatest influence is my clarinet studio professor Dr. Chesher. Not only did I grow in my playing but in myself as a person. He was just good at listening and being so level headed. I am glad I still get to talk to him.

If you had a chance to meet any performer/musician, alive or dead, whom would you choose?

I would love to meet Dmitri Shostakovich because I think his mindset of “getting back at the system” of Soviet-Russia using music shows that composers can move the masses with music. I also like how he writes for the clarinet.

What ensembles are you performing with currently?

I am currently an active member of the Karl King Municipal Band and the Fort Dodge Area Symphony.

What do you enjoy most about the local music and art scene?

I enjoy the fact there are plenty of live shows every week of almost every genre you can think of. I appreciate that local businesses bring in different artists to appeal to the diversity Fort Dodge has.

What is the most unusual thing to have happened to you during a performance/concert?

I do get the hiccups when I play and they are loud. So there has been a time or two when during some of the longest resting sections ever I have the hiccups and I’m trying my best to keep them in. It can be quite funny being my stand partner or sitting next to me when that happens.

Outside of music and the classroom, what other things do you enjoy? Any hobbies?

I am an active runner. I spend a lot of time with my red heeler Wiley. I enjoy just being outside and taking in nature.

What has been the hardest lesson to learn when it comes to music and education?

Teaching is hard no matter what content you teach. Kids are different even within the 10 years I’ve been teaching. The outcome of being a band teacher is that I generally get to know kids over 4 years instead of getting a new group each year like the general core teachers do. That is where I think specified content teachers are the luckiest teachers.

What do you tell a student who is interested in pursuing a career in music/music education?

Do it! It’s not always about who is the best performer or understands the most about music theory. Teaching others music is more about teaching them to love the world around them. I believe Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser said something like, “Teaching a kid to play an instrument is the best way to teach them how to say I love you. Playing an instrument is an outward showing to others around them that they love them.”

The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance

JUNE 2024

24 North 9th Street, Suite A Fort Dodge, IA 50501

Phone 515-955-5500 Fax 515-955-3245 www.greaterfortdodge.com

STAFF

Astra Ferris CEO astra@greaterfortdodge.com

Jefferson Fosbender

Economic Development Director jefferson@greaterfortdodge.com

Jill Nelson

Community Development Director jill@greaterfortdodge.com

Skyla Porter

Marketing Specialist skyla@greaterfortdodge.com

Emily Ayres

Operations Coordinator emily@greaterfortdodge.com

MISSION STATEMENT

NEWMembers

RJ Powersports is a powersports dealership with a full parts and service department, offering top brands like Polaris, Yamaha, GEM, Slingshot, Victory, and Indian Motorcycle, with off-road vehicles suitable for farmers, ranchers, outdoorsmen, weekend warriors, and avid sports riders.

OUR FAMILY HOMESTEAD

Our Family Homestead brings farm fresh eggs, flavored pistachios, canned goods, freezer-dried fruits, and vegetables to include seasonal fruits and vegetables. Our products will be available at the Ft. Dodge Farmers Market June 8th - October 12th or by calling 520-400-1900.

Ribbon Cutting

Congratulations to St. Olaf Lutheran Church and Kingdom Kids of St. Olaf on your ribbon cutting. St. Olaf Lutheran Church celebrated its membership with us and celebrated the opening of their new daycare, Kingdom Kids of St. Olaf.

Congratulations to KHI Solutions on your ribbon cutting and expansion/remodel of your building.

Congratulations to Wandering Wellness on your ribbon cutting! Wandering Wellness provides mobile massage Therapy for inhome, special events, sporting events, community events, and corporate events.

Congratulations to Sweet Snax, LLC on your ribbon cutting. Sweet Snax is an award-winning home-based bakery specializing in realistic florals hand crafted out of buttercream.

Congratulation to Fort Dodge Public Art Commission on your ribbon cutting dedicating the mural of the grain silo. This large-scale artwork, created by artist Guido van Helten and funded entirely by donations, features community members Charlene Washington, Dick Whitcomb, Terry Lawler, Rachel Loots, and Katie Delaney.

Fort Dodge Community Foundation and UNITED WAY

OUR STATE COMPENSATES YOU FOR GIVING BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY WITH A 25% TAX CREDIT

In 2003, the Iowa Legislature established the Endow Iowa Tax Credit program with the goal of incentivizing Iowa citizens to give back and invest in their own communities, realizing that charitable giving is an important strategy for sustaining and growing Iowa communities. The Endow Iowa tax credit is 25% of the amount of the endowed charitable gift.

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation offers donors an attractive tax benefit that is only available through qualified community foundations, (the Fort Dodge Community Foundation is a qualified community foundation). The Endow Iowa Tax Credit Program provides a wonderful incentive for citizens interested in giving back to support important charitable organizations and causes in their communities.

Donors who establish an endowed fund with the Fort Dodge Community Foundation are eligible to receive a 25% state of Iowa tax credit for the amount of their gift and also take full advantage of federal income tax deductions that are afforded to charitable gifts. The generic example listed here is based on an endowed gift of $10,000 with the donor being in a 30% tax bracket.

$10,000 donation

$ 3,000 may be saved on federal taxes

$ 2,500 25% state tax credit

$ 5,500 = net tax savings

$ 4,500 = donor cost

Effective August 28, 2018, taxpayers who receive Endow Iowa Tax Credits and itemize on their federal tax returns are required to reduce their federal charitable deductions by the value of any state tax credit received. Donors can deduct the full value of their gift if they have not reached the $10,000 state and local taxes (SALT) Cap.

Donors who establish a donor-advised fund with the Fort Dodge Community Foundation can support churches, schools, hospitals, nonprofit organizations, and other charitable projects from their donor-advised fund. Donors to any of these entities can be eligible to receive attractive tax savings including Endow Iowa Tax Credits.

A great legacy gift: By establishing an endowed fund at the Fort Dodge Community Foundation, a donor can plant a seed that will grow to benefit their favorite charities or charitable causes forever. An endowed fund can be established through a charitable donation of cash, stocks, bonds, real estate or other property. If donated stocks, real estate or other property have appreciated in value, the donor will avoid having to pay capital gains taxes on their donation.

Endowed funds are invested over time, and the earnings and growth (usually 5% annually) from the endowment are used to make gifts to the charities of the donor’s choice. The endowment is a permanent source of capital, fostering good work today and in the future. By making a generous gift today at the Fort Dodge Community Foundation, donors can establish a family legacy that will help their favorite charities and causes for literally decades to come.

It is important to note that this information is for informational purposes and not as tax or legal advice. Donors are encouraged to consult their own tax, legal and accounting advisors.

For more information on how you can support your favorite charities and receive attractive tax saving benefits, please contact the Fort Dodge Community Foundation at 515-573-3171 or stop in and visit with us at our office at 24 North 9th Street in Fort Dodge.

RANDY KUHLMAN

C.E.O FORT DODGE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AND UNITED WAY

County Connect Webster

River’s Edge Discovery Center

Webster County is thrilled to announce the grand opening of the River’s Edge Discovery Center on July 12-13, 2024 (Friday and Saturday). This will help kick off a remarkable partnership between Webster County and the City of Fort Dodge, aimed at enhancing environmental education and revitalizing our incredible Des Moines riverfront. This collaborative effort underscores the greater Fort Dodge community’s commitment to improving quality of life for our residents, stimulating tourism to the area, and fostering a deeper understanding of Webster County’s vast natural resources.

The project concept for the River’s Edge Discovery Center was identified in December 2018 through the Webster County Parks Recreation & Facilities Master Plan. Shortly thereafter, a committee was formed in January 2019 to review potential locations and needs for the center. The City of Fort Dodge approved the Central River District Plan in February 2021, with the center being the first phase of a multi-phase re-development of the Des Moines Riverfront.

Given the project’s scale and ambition, the most significant challenge has been funding. The concept of an environmental education facility has been part of the Webster County Conservation Board’s vision for the past thirty years. This facility is an extension of the board’s environmental education program.

To combat this challenge, a combination of county, grants, and private contributions were received. The total budget stands at $9 million, with contributions of $4,025,000 by Webster County, a $4 million Destination Iowa Grant, a Great Places Grant of $300,000, $550,000 in private donations, and a $125,000 Urban Water Quality Grant.

Preliminary design services were approved by the Webster County Board of Supervisors in February 2021 along with the signing of a contract with ISG, a multi-disciplinary architecture and engineering firm. In March 2021, $11 million was allocated for “Quality of Life” projects, which included trails and the center. In July 2021, Taylor Studios was hired to design and construct the interpretive plan and exhibits. In

December 2021, the City and County signed a Memorandum of Understanding to transfer five acres of land from Fort Dodge to Webster County for the center’s future home.

Despite encountering further obstacles, the project moved forward in October 2022 when the Supervisors approved a $6.7 million contract with Jensen Builders for construction of the building.

The Discovery Center will feature a variety of handson, interactive, educational exhibits that will appeal to a broad audience and to all ages, with the central theme being “Immerse yourself in the living story of Iowa’s water - the lifeblood that shapes our communities and our landscapes - while discovering our responsibility to protect it for the future.” These exhibits will include sub-themes like “Water in motion, Water as a responsibility, Water as a lifeblood, Water through the ages, and Water as a celebration.” All of these themes fit into the long-term goal of providing a basic understanding and appreciation for Iowa’s water and natural resources. The center is a part of the Conservation Board’s overall mission to improve the quality of life for the citizens and visitors of Webster County and ultimately connect people with the land. It also will serve as the hub for outdoor recreation in the region and the catalyst project for the re-development of the riverfront in Fort Dodge.

As mentioned, this is just the first phase. The next phase will introduce additional amenities such as natural playscapes, trails, fishing jetties, and public art and is scheduled to start this summer/fall, with the City’s planned improvements that include a Central River District Park and Pavilion. Additional development includes interpretive signage, water trail access improvements, new interior exhibits, a skate park, and more trail connections.

The River’s Edge Discovery Center will prove to be the first step of several that residents and visitors alike will be able to see for themselves the power not only of the river, but also the power of strong community collaboration. We can’t wait to show you!

-Messenger photo by Kelby Wingert

Brad Cabrera holds up a walleye he caught while fishing on one of the fishing jetties along the Des Moines River.

Iowa Central Community College

College Connect

Positive Connection: Iowa Central Alum and Bemrich Electric

As Bemrich Electric and Telephone celebrates their 40th anniversary, many Iowa Central Community College Alumni will be there celebrating with them as employees. Iowa Central graduates have been a part of the Bemrich Electric team for many years, including co-owner Jamie Bemrich who graduated from Iowa Central in 1989.

More recently, Keenan Cook graduated from the Iowa Central Electrical Technologies Program and joined the local workforce with Bemrich Electric. “I graduated in 2019 and started working immediately,” says Cook who grew up in Fort Dodge and was on the Iowa Central wrestling team.

Cook says he wanted to work in the trades industry because he likes to solve problems, work with his hands, and meet new people. “One of the most interesting projects I’ve been involved with is setting up a robotic arm for a local manufacturing company. The company representative for the robot is from Germany and working with him on the project was pretty cool.”

In addition to meeting new and interesting people, Cook says he’s always learning something new. “With the fast pace of different industries adopting new technology and processes, we are always learning new ways to better serve our customers and meet their needs,” reflects Cook.

While he continues to enjoy new challenges on the job, Cook says he was well prepared to enter the workforce when he graduated from Iowa Central. “The hands-on training at Iowa Central matched what I needed to be successful when I graduated and hired immediately,” says Cook. He adds that Iowa Central instructor Thad Cooper was instrumental in choosing a career in Electrical. “I was not sure which trade field I wanted to go in, and Mr. Cooper helped me understand the dynamics and career opportunities of the Electrical Technologies field. I knew I was making a great choice after visiting with him.”

An added bonus of attending Iowa Central for Cook was making new friends. “Some of my best friends are people I met at Iowa Central. I had a great experience there and it was very affordable.” Five years post-graduation, Cook says life is good. “I’m working in a field I love, and I’m surrounded by great people. The leadership and team at Bemrich Electric are my mentors and friends. I feel fortunate.”

Enroll Today for a Bright Future

The Iowa Central Community College Electrical Technologies Program provides training essentials for a career as residential electricians, plant maintenance electricians, wind farm technicians and much more. During the first year, students will develop a solid electrical foundation essential to the many fields of the electrical and electronics industry. The eight-week summer internship will provide relevant industry work experience to ensure a smooth classroom-to-work transition.

The second year of the program will provide additional skills in motor controls, programmable controllers, motor fundamentals, industrial wiring, and conduit bending. Upon successful completion of the program, students are awarded an Associate in Applied Sciences Degree. With the completion of the Electrical Technologies degree and working as an electrician for 6,000 more hours after graduation, the student will be eligible to take the State of Iowa Journeyman Electrical License exam in Iowa (not eligible in other states).

To enroll or learn more about the Electrical Technologies program or to schedule a visit, contact our advising team at 1-800-362-2793 or visit us right now at www.iowacentral.edu

Meet Our Instructors

Troy Harris Program Coordinator

Thad Cooper

Steve Cabrera

Jordan Pressler

UPCOMINGEVENTS

June 17-28 - Webster County Fairgrounds - 2024 Open Photography Show

June 19 and 28 - Lunch on Central- 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.- Between Webster Co. Courthouse and FD Messenger

June 20 - 5:30 p.m. - The Laramar Ballroom- One Year Anniversary with Clay Clear Band and Emma Elsbecker

June 21 - 7 to 9 p.m. - Rosedale Rapids Aquatic Center- Adults Only Swim (18+)

June 22 - 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Stella’s Coffee Bar- Stella’s Summer Market

June 22 - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.- City Square- 2024 Pride Festival

June 22 - 1:30 p.m.- Blanden Arts Education Center- Free Art Saturday

June 22 and 23 - Fort Dodge Country Club- FD Amateur Championship Golf

June 22 and 23 - Webster County Fairgrounds- American Boer Goat Association’s Central Iowa Classic

June 23 - 5 p.m. - Oleson Park Bandshell- Karl King Band Summer Concert Series

June 27- 10 a.m. - Oleson Park- FD Parks and Rec’s Park and Play

June 27- 6 p.m. - Camp WaNoKi- Hamilton Co. Conservation Fireside Chat on Primitive Weapons

June 29- 6 p.m. - Webster County Fairgrounds- Figure 8 Races

June 29- 6 p.m. - The Community Orchard- Guitar and Grill-Out with Jared Benson

June 29- 7 p.m. - Sports Park Raceway- Stock Car Special

June 30 - 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. - Dolliver Memorial State Park- The Green Dragon Bookshop’s Summer Reading Retreat

June 30 - 7 to 9 p.m. - Rosedale Rapids Aquatic Center- Late Night Family Swim

July 5- 5 to 8 p.m. - FD Ford Toyota- Ja-Mar Cruise Night

July 6- 9 a.m. - Rosedale Rapids Aquatic Center- Lazy 5k

July 10 - 9 a.m. - Blanden Arts Education Center- Family Fun Days

July 11- 10 a.m. - Snell Crawford Park- FD Parks and Rec’s Park and Play

July 11- 8:30 p.m. - Oleson Park Bandshell- Movies Under the Moon, Wish

July 12- 5:30 p.m. - Rosedale Rapids Aquatic Center- Inner Tube Water Polo

July 13- 6 p.m. - The Community Orchard- Guitar and Grill-Out with Jessica McClintock

July 13- 7 p.m. - Sports Park Raceway- Marsh Memorial and B-Mod Special

Best Party Store

Andee Barwin

School/Grade: Year and High School graduated from: Saint Edmond, 2024!

Tell us about some of your cultural experiences growing up in Fort Dodge.

I grew up enjoying musicals and dancing! I cheered and danced at United All Stars while I participated in Comedia Musicals and Stage Door! I loved every minute of being on stage…still do! I love to perform and make other people smile!

What have you most enjoyed about music and

The thing I have enjoyed most about music and theatre at St. Ed’s is the memories of people I have met along the way! While I wasn’t always the best singer in the choir, I knew no one else cared, they were just happy I was there! I enjoyed being surrounded by others who enjoyed my presence…and obviously

What are the biggest benefits for a child growing up in Fort Dodge that is involved in theatre and the arts, from your perspective?

I think growing up involved in theatre and arts, you grow much more confident and independent! Through music and theatre, I kind of have found that I am okay to be perfectly who I want to be! A child growing up around people who are all so different but there for one purpose (to put on a show) displays a new perspective of what life should be. It also transpires a great sense of confidence because you have to be completely comfortable with yourself in order to make everyone else love the show!

Where will Andee Barwin be in 25 years? And what

will she be doing?

Hopefully…in 25 years, I will have made some sort of difference in the world. I will be 43 years old (woah crazy!) and would love to be a mother! I hope to have traveled the world as a travel nurse and speak publicly on issues globally affecting women and children. In 25 years, I hope to have made some long term changes to the foster care system, the education system, the medical care system, and the domestic violence system. Above all though, I hope in 25 years people see me as a kind soul. I hope I have made a lot of friends and loved hard. I hope that I am happy.

Who are some of your role models & why?

My mom is probably my biggest role model. She shows me strength and love every single day. She’s taught me more than anyone else ever could. I don’t think she realizes how much she means to me. She has sacrificed her whole world for my siblings and me and I hope to live so selflessly like her. Along with her, all the little kids in my life are my role models. They inspire me to be a better person everyday. As much as I hear people say they look up to me, little do they know, I have always looked up to them and their loving hearts even more.

You get to meet some famous, alive or dead, for dinner. Who would you choose, why and what would you like to chat about?

I would choose Michelle Obama or Matthew McConaughey. I would talk about life and all the things that come with it! I would want to chat about not just surviving but living and how to help others do so as well.

What are your plans for the fall?

In the fall I plan to attend University of Nebraska-Omaha to continue my education and cheer career! I plan to major in pre-nursing and minor in political communications and social work! Afterwards, I plan to travel the world and spend time abroad!

LOOK FOR DIFFERENT WAYS TO BORROW AND USE CREDIT

Like most Americans, you will probably take on debt at some point in your life. And by managing debt wisely, you can potentially improve your saving and spending habits – and even your ability to invest for the future.

Let’s look at some of the common options available for borrowing and using credit:

Credit card – When used carefully – and not over-used – a credit card can be a valuable tool, especially if you travel frequently. Many people tend to stick with the same credit card without exploring what else is out there. Try to find a card that rewards you in as many ways as possible – and then keep your eyes open occasionally for even better rewards as they can change from time to time. Obviously, you want a card with a low interest rate, although ideally, you’d like to pay the card off each month without incurring any interest. You also should take a close look at a card’s other features. Are you getting a competitive amount of mileage points? How much is your annual fee? Do you have a generous “cash back” program? Do you have access to “extras,” such as airport lounges?

Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit – As the names suggest, a home equity loan or line of credit lets you tap into the equity you’ve built up in your home, which can be considerable, especially if you’ve owned your home for a long time. A home equity loan

provides you with a lump sum, which you will repay over a set term with a fixed interest rate. A home equity line of credit usually carries a variable rate, although you might find a lender offering a fixed-rate option. You can generally draw on your loan or line of credit for any purpose, but keep in mind that unless you’re using the funds for home improvements or additions, your interest payments are generally not tax deductible.

Securities-based lending – Just as a home equity line of credit lets you borrow against the equity in your home, a securities-based loan, such as a margin loan, lets you borrow against the value of your investments, including stocks, exchange traded funds and mutual funds. Some people take out margin loans to purchase more investments, but you can use the money for any purpose. The margin loan process is usually not complex and when you make repayments, you’re paying yourself back. However, you should approach a margin loan with caution because if you borrow too much, the value of your margin account may fall below the maintenance requirement – the minimum dollar amount you must keep in your margin account after you’ve started taking money out. When this happens, your brokerage institution may issue a maintenance call that requires you to

either deposit more money or marginable securities or sell some of the investments in your account.

Ultimately, when weighing your borrowing and credit options, you’ll want to evaluate several factors: the interest rate you’ll be paying, the purpose for taking on the debt, your ability to repay it without impinging on your cash flow, and so on. With careful thought and planning, and, if needed, help from a financial professional, you can make your debt work for you – and not the other way around.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Did you know GreenState is consistently ranked in the Top 1% Nationally for returning profits with better rates & lower fees? That means one of the Top financial institutions in the country, is here in Fort Dodge.